Mini-sternotomy approach for aortic valve replacement in the patient with retrosternal gastric tube

Abstract

This case report details our experience of aortic valve replacement(AVR) following esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.The route of the retrosternal gastric tube was clearly visualized by esophagogram and CT. A mini-sternotomy was performed safely, resulting in minimal dissection of the retrosternal adhesion and a good exposure to institute extracorporeal circulation and perform the AVR. The patient was discharged uneventfully and was in NYHA class I at three months after surgery. A ministernotomy is a safe alternative approach for good exposure of the heart when performing AVR in patients with a retrosternal gastric tube.